Draft plans, code updates, and reclassification recommendations are ready for your feedback





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Kitsap County News











Community Development headline

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*

September 5, 2025

Rural Code Drafts Available for Public Review and Comments

*PORT ORCHARD, Wash.* – Kitsap County’s Comprehensive Plan update for the Year of the Rural [ [link removed] ] is entering its next phase, and public feedback is needed. The draft Rural & Resource Lands Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan, along with proposed rural code updates and site-specific reclassification recommendations, are now available for public review. These materials cover a wide range of topics, childcare, agriculture, and equestrian facilities. Community members have *10 weeks* to review the drafts, ask questions, and submit comments to help shape final recommendations and ensure rural priorities are heard.

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How to Participate

*Review the Drafts*

Explore the documents to see proposed updates on rural development, zoning, land use, and community priorities for the future.

*Submit Your Comments*

We welcome your feedback through public comment form or through public hearings.

*Comment Form Open: September 2 – November 10*


* *Comments through September 23*: Shared with the Planning Commission + Board of County Commissioners
* *Comments after September 23*: Shared with the Board of County Commissioners only

Your comments are part of the official record and will help refine policies, regulations, and potential zoning changes.

*Year of the Rural: Deliverables Comment Form* [ [link removed] ]

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Common Questions We’re Hearing

* *Is the code retroactive?* No. New code is not retroactive unless the Board finds a public health or safety concern requiring immediate action.
* *What if I expand my property or change its use?* Expansions or changes in use (e.g., boarding stable → equestrian facility) may require review through existing permit processes (ACUP/CUP).
* *What if I sell my property?* A change in ownership alone does *not* trigger new requirements.
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Key Dates

* *September 2 - November 10 *- Comment Period
* *September 11* – Project Presentation & Open House, 5-7 pm
* *September 23* – Planning Commission Public Hearing, 5:30 pm
* *November 10* – Board of County Commissioners Public Hearing, 5:30 pm
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 What Happens Next

After the comment period, all feedback will be reviewed and incorporated before final versions are presented to the Planning Commission and Board of County Commissioners later this year.

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*Review the drafts + submit comments here:* [link removed]

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To review the draft, participate in the survey, and learn more about the project, visit the "Year of the Rural" webpage: [link removed] [ [link removed] ]

Kitsap County Rural and Resource Lands Chapter Update [ [link removed] ] – Story Map

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*About Kitsap County*

"Located in Washington, ""Kitsap County" [ [link removed] ]" is home to over 270,000 residents across 566 square miles, making it the seventh- most populated county in the state. Bordered by the Hood Canal and Puget Sound, Kitsap offers residents, businesses, and visitors a stunning natural beauty and a unique blend of urban amenities and rural charm. The county includes the cities of Bremerton, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, and Bainbridge Island, as well as many unincorporated communities. " 

"Kitsap County is led by a three-member Board of Commissioners that is committed to providing high-quality services and amenities that enhance the quality of life for all residents while fostering economic growth, environmental conservation, and sustainable development." 

"For more information about Kitsap County services and initiatives, visit ""www.kitsap.gov" [ [link removed] ]" or follow us on social media ""@KitsapWa" [ [link removed] ]"." 

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*Connect with us*

Stay informed about the latest news from Kitsap County. Visit our website [ [link removed] ], follow us on social media, or sign up for our updates [ [link removed] ].

 

*Links in this document*

County's 'Year of the Rural' initiative / [link removed]

[email protected] / [email protected]

E-agenda page / [link removed]

"Kitsap County: "www.kitsap.gov" [ [link removed] ]"

"@KitsapWA: ""www.facebook.com/KitsapWa" [ [link removed] ]

"Website: ""www.kitsap.gov" [ [link removed] ]

"Sign up for our updates: ""[link removed]" [ [link removed] ]

 






Contact Information

Krista Carlson, Communications Manager & PIO, Board of County Commissioners [email protected], (564) 222-0375

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Resources

Click the links below for more information about County resources.
"All news releases [ [link removed] ]  |  ""County Home Page [ [link removed] ]  |  ""Inclement Weather [ [link removed] ]  |  ""The Road Repor [ [link removed] ]t [ [link removed] ]"

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*Kitsap Electronic Notification System*

Questions? Contact Kitsap1 at 360.337.5777 or [email protected]







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